Life often gets in the way when building an airplane, and Bruce blames this for the unexpected length of time it took to complete the project. About twelve years ago he optimistically predicted it would fly in 3 or 4 years. Those of us who’d been through what he was starting, grinned and said: “Sure!”
But persistence is the biggest factor in most accomplishments and Bruce has certainly demonstrated this. Along the way he took the time (and expense) to do things correctly – and documented most of the process with digital photography. He now has thousands of pictures showing the many ways of making Bucker-bits! His plan is to get to Oshkosh next year and see what the judges think of his handiwork. Having seen several Oshkosh Champions, I can confidently say this plane will be in the running!
Bruce lost a wager (for a case of beer) involving the completion date.
The picture above shows the five people closest to the project surrounding the unique, specially designed beer-keg-fridge that Bruce made to pay that debt. It was a still-operative 1952 Frigidaire (made by General Motors!) that he modified to take a keg of beer, with the tap handle on the door (so you don’t have to open the door to pour a beer). He modified the temperature sensing circuit so it maintains the ideal beer temp of 30 degrees F. The door also has a big picture of the same 5 people. Standing at left: John Pavanel who Bruce thanks for giving him the opportunity to build the Jungmann; left of the fridge is Bruce; standing right of the fridge are Karl Pfister and Larry Ernewein; kneeling is Charlie Miller – one of the main causes of the “Old Biplane” virus. Without his knowledge and help none of this would be happening…
Some more pictures
